After a recent spike in cyber attacks in Australia. The latest is that a communications platform used by the Australian military personnel and defence staff has come under ransomware attack.

Australia: Hackers hit defence communications platform, to increase penalties for data breaches

The United States is planning to deploy up to six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to an air base in northern Australia, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday, amid heightened tensions with Beijing.

Dedicated facilities for the bombers will be set up at the Australian air force's remote Tindal base, about 300 km (190 miles) south of Darwin, the capital of Australia's Northern territory, said the source, who declined to be identified because they are not authorised to speak publicly on the issue.

The development was first reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corp (ABC)'s Four Corners programme, citing U.S. documents.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia engages with the United States on defence alliances "from time to time."

"There are visits, of course, to Australia, including in Darwin, that has U.S. Marines, of course, on a rotating basis stationed there," Albanese said during a media conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luiz-inacio-lula-da-silva-the-newly-elected-president-of-brazil-with-a-chequered-past-529734" hreflang="en">Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva: The new president of Brazil with a chequered past</a>

Australia's Northern Territory is already host to frequent military collaborations with the United States. Thousands of U.S. Marines rotate through the territory annually for training and joint exercises, started under President Barack Obama.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles' office declined to comment.

The United States has drawn up detailed plans for what it calls a "squadron operations facility" for use during the Northern Territory dry season, an adjoining maintenance centre and a parking area for the B-52s, the ABC report said.

The ability to deploy the long-range bombers to Australia sends a strong message to adversaries about Washington's ability to project air power, the U.S. Air Force was quoted as saying in the report.

Last year, the United States, Britain and Australia created a security deal that will provide Australia with the technology to deploy nuclear-powered submarines, riling China.

Putting B-52s, which have a combat range of about 14,000 km, in Australia will be a warning to Beijing, as fears grow about an assault on Taiwan, Becca Wasser, senior fellow at the Washington, D.C.-based Centre for a New American Security, told the ABC.

This year, the U.S. deployed four B-52s to its Andersen Air Force base in Guam.

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The United States is planning to deploy up to six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to an air base in northern Australia, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday, amid heightened tensions with Beijing.

The United States is planning to deploy up to six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to an air base in northern Australia, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday, amid heightened tensions with Beijing. Dedicated facilities for the bombers will be set up at the Australian air force's remote Tindal base, about 300 km (190 miles) south of Darwin, the capital of Australia's Northern territory, said the source, who declined to be identified because they are not authorised to speak publicly on the issue. The development was first reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corp (ABC)'s Four Corners programme, citing U.S. documents. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia engages with the United States on defence alliances "from time to time." "There are visits, of course, to Australia, including in Darwin, that has U.S. Marines, of course, on a rotating basis stationed there," Albanese said during a media conference. Also read | Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva: The new president of Brazil with a chequered past Australia's Northern Territory is already host to frequent military collaborations with the United States. Thousands of U.S. Marines rotate through the territory annually for training and joint exercises, started under President Barack Obama. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles' office declined to comment. The United States has drawn up detailed plans for what it calls a "squadron operations facility" for use during the Northern Territory dry season, an adjoining maintenance centre and a parking area for the B-52s, the ABC report said. The ability to deploy the long-range bombers to Australia sends a strong message to adversaries about Washington's ability to project air power, the U.S. Air Force was quoted as saying in the report. Last year, the United States, Britain and Australia created a security deal that will provide Australia with the technology to deploy nuclear-powered submarines, riling China. Putting B-52s, which have a combat range of about 14,000 km, in Australia will be a warning to Beijing, as fears grow about an assault on Taiwan, Becca Wasser, senior fellow at the Washington, D.C.-based Centre for a New American Security, told the ABC. This year, the U.S. deployed four B-52s to its Andersen Air Force base in Guam.

United States plans to deploy B-52 bombers to Australia's north: Report

In what comes as one of the biggest drug busts in the history of Hong Kong, the authorities last week seized liquid methamphetamine, worth $140 million (HK$1.1 billion), disguised as coconut water.

In what comes as one of the biggest drug busts in the history of Hong Kong, the authorities last week seized liquid methamphetamine, worth $140 million (HK$1.1 billion), disguised as coconut water. Reportedly, the customs officials discovered the 1.8-tonne contraband on a cargo ship which was on its way to Sydney, Australia after originating from Mexico. Officials stated that liquid meth was found hidden in more than half of the 3,600 cartons of coconut water. The discovery was only made possible after the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Border Force (ABF) in Hong Kong worked with Hong Kong Customs and Excise (HKCE). The authorities in Hong Kong and Australia were reportedly tipped off by Mexican officials via intelligence exchange. "Mexica-based officers used their international network to alert AFP officers in Hong Kong about the suspicious consignment being shipped from Mexico to Australia via Hong Kong. Ongoing investigations are under way to identify the transnational serious organised criminals involved in the plot," said the AFP in a statement. Authorities believe that the consignment was part of a massive international drug trafficking ring and if it had been unloaded on the New South Wales shores, the drugs could have been sold as about 18 million street-level deals. They added that it was the first time since 2016 that coconut water shipment for drug delivery was observed. The Mexican cartels rarely use this mode of shipment. Last time, the seized contraband weighed only around six kilogrammes. Read more: US authorities find drug-smuggling tunnel with rail system at Mexico border Notably, the particular drug bust comes days after the law enforcement agencies had seized $14 million worth of meth hidden in electrical transformers, similarly bound for Australia. So far, the former British colony has managed to seize double the meth that was uncovered last year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

1.8 tonnes of liquid meth, worth $140 mn, hidden in coconut water cartons seized by HK authorities

Qatar has faced intense criticism since it was set to host the World Cup, the Australian football team has released a video demanding more from Qatar. The latter has faced heat for its labour policies and human rights record.

FIFA 2022: Qatar's Emir lashes out at criticism ahead of World Cup

A woman in Australia, who has confessed to killing her longtime partner with an axe, previously searched on Google about parts of the body that should be targetted in order to kill a person, according to statement presented to a court in Sydney.

At the time of the murder, the woman had a previous apprehended violence order (AVO) against her after her partner told that she has in past attacked him with a meat cleaver.

The man in turn, had three convictions of use of violence against her.

The woman has pleaded guilty to the murder. She attacked her partner when he was lying down looking at his iPad in September 2020.

Earlier, the woman had made Google searches “can you kill someone with hot boiling water” and “is it really easy to murder somebody with a knife”.

Before the actual murder, she did more searches, one of them was, “What is the fastest part of body to kill someone with the axe.”

The woman kept a cab waiting when she bought a half-axe. Later she sent texts to people that said, “You guys might hear something on the news I might be in prison I can’t deal with it any more.”

After the murder, the woman went to the police and confessed to the crime. But she concocted a story of her partner having drawn out a knife.

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A woman in Australia, who has confessed to killing her longtime partner with an axe, previously searched on Google about parts of the body that should be targetted in order to kill a person, according to statement presented to a court in Sydney.

A woman in Australia, who has confessed to killing her longtime partner with an axe, previously searched on Google about parts of the body that should be targetted in order to kill a person, according to statement presented to a court in Sydney. At the time of the murder, the woman had a previous apprehended violence order (AVO) against her after her partner told that she has in past attacked him with a meat cleaver. The man in turn, had three convictions of use of violence against her. The woman has pleaded guilty to the murder. She attacked her partner when he was lying down looking at his iPad in September 2020. Earlier, the woman had made Google searches “can you kill someone with hot boiling water” and “is it really easy to murder somebody with a knife”. Before the actual murder, she did more searches, one of them was, “What is the fastest part of body to kill someone with the axe.” The woman kept a cab waiting when she bought a half-axe. Later she sent texts to people that said, “You guys might hear something on the news I might be in prison I can’t deal with it any more.” After the murder, the woman went to the police and confessed to the crime. But she concocted a story of her partner having drawn out a knife. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australia: Axe murderer googled ‘what part of body to go for’ before killing

Trade with sanctioned Russia is helping China's currency, reports say that Yuan has become 5th most traded currency in the world. China's currency was up three places to number five in bank for international settlements.

World Business News: Yuan becomes 5th most traded currency, surpasses Australian, Canadian dollar

Australia is bracing for the third wave of flooding. Australia will spend millions on flood recovery. Watch this report for all the details.

WION Climate Tracker: Australia to spend millions on flood recovery

The case against a former political advisor accused of raping a colleague inside Australia's Parliament House has been dismissed, due to "misconduct" on the part of the jury.

Following a night out in March 2019, Brittany Higgins was allegedly sexually assaulted on the sofa of a government minister by Bruce Lehrmann. He claims they didn't engage in any sexual activity.

But after a 12-day trial and five days of discussion, the jury was expelled once it became known that one of its members had looked at academic material on sexual assault, which is against trial rules.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-judge-permits-harvey-weinsteins-former-assistant-to-testify-in-sexual-assault-case-528396">Judge permits Harvey Weinstein's former assistant to testify in sexual assault case</a>

"It may be that no harm has been done, but that is not a risk I can take," Chief Justice Lucy McCallum told a Canberra court.

As per Australian rules, a jury is expected to reach a judgement based on evidence presented in court, and not its own research.

Judge McCallum estimated that she had warned the jury about conducting their own research at least 17 times, and "probably much more" times.

A court representative found the academic paper after it fell off a table during "regular housekeeping" of the jury room.

Higgins waived her right to privacy before disclosing her narrative to authorities in early 2021 and went public with her allegations in prominent media and television interviews.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-of-all-its-nearly-4mn-customers-compromised-by-the-hack-says-medibank-528516">Data of all its nearly 4mn customers compromised by the hack, says Medibank</a>

Her accusations served as the impetus for what has been dubbed Australia's "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-opening-arguments-to-start-in-weinstein-sex-assault-trial-528000">MeToo moment</a>," which sparked protests and discussions about women's safety across the country and exposed a toxic work environment in Australian politics.

Higgins and&nbsp;Lehrmann shared an office with then-Defence Industry Minister Linda Reynolds, the court heard during the trial. They both had beverages on March 22, 2019, with coworkers and other people.

After spending hours at two Canberra bars, Higgins claimed to be the most drunk she had ever been, the jury was informed. The two then shared a cab to Parliament House.

As the jurors watched CCTV footage of her and Lehrmann entering the premises, she was sobbing inside the courtroom.

In a police interview that was shown to the jury, Higgins said that she had slept off in Minister Reynolds' office before waking up to find Lehrmann having sex with her.

She admitted to crying to the cops. She said, "I told him no; I told him to stop."

Higgins could not have given consent to intercourse since she was "unconscious," according to the prosecution.

The jury heard that she initially reported the alleged rape to authorities in the days that followed, but she later withheld filing a formal complaint out of fear of losing her work.

Although Lehrmann declined to testify, he stated that what was alleged "just didn't happen" in a police interview that was played to the court.

Parts of Higgins' testimony, according to his attorney Steven Whybrow, were "completely and absolutely inconsistent."

Higgins arrived in court to see the case's demise but fled before the judge made her decision.

When they were informed that they were being discharged, a few jury members were very angry.

They informed the court on Tuesday that they had so far been unable to come to a unanimous decision, but the judge promptly ordered them back to continue discussing.

"Everyone is disappointed at what happened but it would be inappropriate and irresponsible to say anything at this stage," Lehrmann's lawyer told media outside the court.

The issue of whether Lehrmann should stand trial again has not yet been debated by the parties, but Justice McCallum scheduled a date in February just in case.

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The case against a former political advisor accused of raping a colleague inside Australia's Parliament House has been dismissed, due to "misconduct" on the part of the jury.

The case against a former political advisor accused of raping a colleague inside Australia's Parliament House has been dismissed, due to "misconduct" on the part of the jury. Following a night out in March 2019, Brittany Higgins was allegedly sexually assaulted on the sofa of a government minister by Bruce Lehrmann. He claims they didn't engage in any sexual activity. But after a 12-day trial and five days of discussion, the jury was expelled once it became known that one of its members had looked at academic material on sexual assault, which is against trial rules. Also read | Judge permits Harvey Weinstein's former assistant to testify in sexual assault case "It may be that no harm has been done, but that is not a risk I can take," Chief Justice Lucy McCallum told a Canberra court. As per Australian rules, a jury is expected to reach a judgement based on evidence presented in court, and not its own research. Judge McCallum estimated that she had warned the jury about conducting their own research at least 17 times, and "probably much more" times. A court representative found the academic paper after it fell off a table during "regular housekeeping" of the jury room. Higgins waived her right to privacy before disclosing her narrative to authorities in early 2021 and went public with her allegations in prominent media and television interviews. Also read | Data of all its nearly 4mn customers compromised by the hack, says Medibank Her accusations served as the impetus for what has been dubbed Australia's "MeToo moment," which sparked protests and discussions about women's safety across the country and exposed a toxic work environment in Australian politics. Higgins and Lehrmann shared an office with then-Defence Industry Minister Linda Reynolds, the court heard during the trial. They both had beverages on March 22, 2019, with coworkers and other people. After spending hours at two Canberra bars, Higgins claimed to be the most drunk she had ever been, the jury was informed. The two then shared a cab to Parliament House. As the jurors watched CCTV footage of her and Lehrmann entering the premises, she was sobbing inside the courtroom. In a police interview that was shown to the jury, Higgins said that she had slept off in Minister Reynolds' office before waking up to find Lehrmann having sex with her. She admitted to crying to the cops. She said, "I told him no; I told him to stop." Higgins could not have given consent to intercourse since she was "unconscious," according to the prosecution. The jury heard that she initially reported the alleged rape to authorities in the days that followed, but she later withheld filing a formal complaint out of fear of losing her work. Although Lehrmann declined to testify, he stated that what was alleged "just didn't happen" in a police interview that was played to the court. Parts of Higgins' testimony, according to his attorney Steven Whybrow, were "completely and absolutely inconsistent." Higgins arrived in court to see the case's demise but fled before the judge made her decision. When they were informed that they were being discharged, a few jury members were very angry. They informed the court on Tuesday that they had so far been unable to come to a unanimous decision, but the judge promptly ordered them back to continue discussing. "Everyone is disappointed at what happened but it would be inappropriate and irresponsible to say anything at this stage," Lehrmann's lawyer told media outside the court. The issue of whether Lehrmann should stand trial again has not yet been debated by the parties, but Justice McCallum scheduled a date in February just in case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia Parliament rape trial jury discharged over 'misconduct'

In the infamous rape case in Australia, after a 12-day trial, the jury has been discharged. Brittany Higgins had accused Bruce Lehrmann in early 2021.

Australia rape case: Brittany Higgins vs Bruce Lehrmann; After a 12-day trial, Jury discharged

Inflation in Australia has surged to 32-year high, it has now lead to a possibility of more aggressive rate hikes by country's central bank.

WION business News | Australia inflation hits highest in 32 years

In the latest string of cyber attacks, Medibank says data of 4 million customers was accessed after a ransomware attack. Watch this report for all the details.

Australia: Medibank says data of 4 million customers accessed

From toasting your breakfast to turning on the AC before heading to bed, almost everyone is responsible for carbon emissions all through their day but only a few stop to reflect on the impact. An Australian couple however has gone the extra mile and has decided to be completely carbon neutral.

WION Climate Tracker: Australian couple monitors carbon footprint to combat climate change

Virgin Australia recently launched a campaign to make more people choose, arguably the most undesired seat on an aeroplane, the middle seat. The Middle Seat Lottery launched by the airline is a lottery worth at least $145,000 and open to only those who, voluntarily or involuntarily, sit in the middle seat during a flight.&nbsp;

According to a social media poll by Virgin Australia, among over 7,500 voters polled only 0.6% voted in favour of the middle seat. However, they hope that this campaign will change that, “Now we're giving our loyal guests the opportunity to win from a prize pool valued at over $230,000 for simply sitting in a middle seat,” said Jayne Hrdlicka, CEO of Virgin Australia Group, in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-us-airlines-and-australian-banks-hit-by-online-outage-392084">Many US airlines and Australian banks hit by online outage</a>

Reports suggest that in line with this campaign the airlines will announce a new prize to a new winner every week till April 23, 2023. The conditions include being a Velocity Frequent Flyer member, travelling on a Virgin Australia domestic flight, being over the age of 18 years and being seated in a middle seat. The passengers can also use the airline’s app to enrol for the lottery.&nbsp;

The announcement was made on October 24 using Virgin Australia’s social media accounts. The winner of the lucky draw will be given gifts including a cruise in the Caribbean with Virgin Voyages which would also include return premium economy flight tickets to the USA with United Airlines.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-to-travel-to-australia-this-month-521615">Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to travel to Australia this month</a>

Other prizes include a two-night holiday in Cairns inclusive of flights, accommodation and a bungee jump or a full-day helicopter pub crawl which is inclusive of return flights to Darwin. One of the other prizes mentioned is for the Australian Football League fans which include flights to Melbourne, exclusive entry to the pre-game lunch and seats to the grand final.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Virgin Australia recently launched a campaign to make more people choose, arguably the most undesired seat on an aeroplane, the middle seat. The Middle Seat Lottery launched by the airline is a lottery worth at least $145,000 and open to only those who, voluntarily or involuntarily, sit in the middle seat during a flight.

Virgin Australia recently launched a campaign to make more people choose, arguably the most undesired seat on an aeroplane, the middle seat. The Middle Seat Lottery launched by the airline is a lottery worth at least $145,000 and open to only those who, voluntarily or involuntarily, sit in the middle seat during a flight. According to a social media poll by Virgin Australia, among over 7,500 voters polled only 0.6% voted in favour of the middle seat. However, they hope that this campaign will change that, “Now we're giving our loyal guests the opportunity to win from a prize pool valued at over $230,000 for simply sitting in a middle seat,” said Jayne Hrdlicka, CEO of Virgin Australia Group, in a statement. ALSO READ: Many US airlines and Australian banks hit by online outage Reports suggest that in line with this campaign the airlines will announce a new prize to a new winner every week till April 23, 2023. The conditions include being a Velocity Frequent Flyer member, travelling on a Virgin Australia domestic flight, being over the age of 18 years and being seated in a middle seat. The passengers can also use the airline’s app to enrol for the lottery. The announcement was made on October 24 using Virgin Australia’s social media accounts. The winner of the lucky draw will be given gifts including a cruise in the Caribbean with Virgin Voyages which would also include return premium economy flight tickets to the USA with United Airlines. ALSO READ: Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to travel to Australia this month Other prizes include a two-night holiday in Cairns inclusive of flights, accommodation and a bungee jump or a full-day helicopter pub crawl which is inclusive of return flights to Darwin. One of the other prizes mentioned is for the Australian Football League fans which include flights to Melbourne, exclusive entry to the pre-game lunch and seats to the grand final. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Virgin Australia launches lottery to make people opt for the middle seat on flights

A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show.

Australian Federal Police arrested Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, on Friday in the rural town of Orange in New South Wales, and he appeared in court there on the same day, court records show and two police sources and his lawyer confirmed.

His lawyer appeared by videoconference, and Duggan was denied bail and taken to the nearby Bathurst jail, two of the sources said.

Duggan is a former U.S. citizen and the federal police were acting on a U.S. request for his arrest ahead of likely formal extradition proceedings, said one of the police sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly.

Duggan's next court appearance will be in Sydney in November to consider any bail application. Details of the U.S. arrest warrant and the charges he faces are sealed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-struggling-to-find-naval-pilots-for-three-aircraft-carriers-report-521421">China facing shortage of 200 qualified fighter jet pilots for its 130 ship-borne aircraft: Report</a>

"An individual was arrested on 21 October 2022 pursuant to a request from the United States of America for their provisional arrest," a spokesman for the federal Attorney-General's Department said in a written statement to Reuters. "As the matter is before the courts, it would not be appropriate to comment further."

The arrest came the same week Britain warned dozens of former military pilots to stop working in China or face prosecution on national security grounds under new laws. Australia is also investigating reports some of its former fighter pilots have been approached to work in China.

An aviation source told Reuters that the FBI sought Duggan because of his work in China. His lawyer, Dennis Miralis of Nyman, Gibson and Miralis, said he could not comment.

Duggan moved to Australia after a decade in the U.S. military and started a business called Top Gun Tasmania, hiring former U.S. and British military pilots to offer tourists joyrides in fighter jets, company records show and aviation sources confirmed.

Duggan also flew ex-military aircraft in Australian air shows, three pilots told Reuters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-air-force-f-35a-crashes-in-florida-pilot-ejects-safely-probe-on-526961">US Air Force F-35A jet crashes in Florida, pilot ejects safely, probe on</a>

Top Gun Tasmania's website says Duggan flew Harrier jump jets in the U.S. Marines and was an air combat instructor.

He moved to Beijing in 2014 and soon after sold Top Gun Tasmania, filings in Australia for the company show.

Duggan's LinkedIn profile said he has been working in Qingdao, China, since 2017 as the managing director of AVIBIZ Limited, described as "a comprehensive aviation consultancy company with a focus on the fast growing and dynamic Chinese Aviation Industry".

Hong Kong company records show AVIBIZ Limited was registered there by Australian passport holder Daniel Edmund Duggan in 2017 and dissolved in 2020.

Duggan could not be immediately reached for comment.

Under Australia's extradition treaty with the United States, the U.S. government will have 60 days to make an extradition request. The treaty allows Australian citizens to be extradited.

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A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show.

A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show. Australian Federal Police arrested Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, on Friday in the rural town of Orange in New South Wales, and he appeared in court there on the same day, court records show and two police sources and his lawyer confirmed. His lawyer appeared by videoconference, and Duggan was denied bail and taken to the nearby Bathurst jail, two of the sources said. Duggan is a former U.S. citizen and the federal police were acting on a U.S. request for his arrest ahead of likely formal extradition proceedings, said one of the police sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly. Duggan's next court appearance will be in Sydney in November to consider any bail application. Details of the U.S. arrest warrant and the charges he faces are sealed. ALSO READ: China facing shortage of 200 qualified fighter jet pilots for its 130 ship-borne aircraft: Report "An individual was arrested on 21 October 2022 pursuant to a request from the United States of America for their provisional arrest," a spokesman for the federal Attorney-General's Department said in a written statement to Reuters. "As the matter is before the courts, it would not be appropriate to comment further." The arrest came the same week Britain warned dozens of former military pilots to stop working in China or face prosecution on national security grounds under new laws. Australia is also investigating reports some of its former fighter pilots have been approached to work in China. An aviation source told Reuters that the FBI sought Duggan because of his work in China. His lawyer, Dennis Miralis of Nyman, Gibson and Miralis, said he could not comment. Duggan moved to Australia after a decade in the U.S. military and started a business called Top Gun Tasmania, hiring former U.S. and British military pilots to offer tourists joyrides in fighter jets, company records show and aviation sources confirmed. Duggan also flew ex-military aircraft in Australian air shows, three pilots told Reuters. ALSO READ: US Air Force F-35A jet crashes in Florida, pilot ejects safely, probe on Top Gun Tasmania's website says Duggan flew Harrier jump jets in the U.S. Marines and was an air combat instructor. He moved to Beijing in 2014 and soon after sold Top Gun Tasmania, filings in Australia for the company show. Duggan's LinkedIn profile said he has been working in Qingdao, China, since 2017 as the managing director of AVIBIZ Limited, described as "a comprehensive aviation consultancy company with a focus on the fast growing and dynamic Chinese Aviation Industry". Hong Kong company records show AVIBIZ Limited was registered there by Australian passport holder Daniel Edmund Duggan in 2017 and dissolved in 2020. Duggan could not be immediately reached for comment. Under Australia's extradition treaty with the United States, the U.S. government will have 60 days to make an extradition request. The treaty allows Australian citizens to be extradited. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former US military pilot who worked in China arrested in Australia, faces extradition

Fitbit is once again under the scanner in in Australia for allegedly misleading consumers about their consumer guarantee rights. Australia's competition regulator has instituted court proceedings against Fitbit for allegedly making misleading claims.

WION Business News | Australian regulator takes Fitbit to court

The United Nations has abruptly suspended its anti-torture&nbsp;mission to Australia after inspectors were barred from several jails, with a key oversight body condemning on Monday the "embarrassing debacle".

Tasked with touring facilities under a voluntary agreement to prevent cruelty to detainees, the inspectors said they made the "drastic" decision after they were refused entry at "several" jails and detention facilities.

Lead inspector Aisha Muhammad, a Supreme Court judge in the Maldives, said Australia was in "clear breach" of its international obligations.

"Despite our numerous efforts to explain our preventative mandate, this was clearly not understood," she said.

Only three other countries -- Rwanda, Azerbaijan and Ukraine -- have had anti-torture&nbsp;inspectors suspend or postpone missions.

Australia ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention against&nbsp;Torture&nbsp;(OPCAT) in 2017, committing to reforms safeguarding detainees and making facilities subject to inspection.&nbsp;

Former prison inspector Steven Caruana coordinated the domestic body responsible for tracking Australia's implementation of the convention.

"There can really be no excuse as to why the delegation was hindered," he told AFP on Monday.&nbsp;

"Australia has had almost five years to prepare for this visit. Australia will now have to answer for this embarrassing debacle in front of the United Nations Committee against&nbsp;Torture."&nbsp;

Allegations of rights abuses&nbsp;

Australia's refusal to welcome the inspectors boiled down to a funding dispute between the federal and state governments.

The federal government ratified the convention, but individual states and territories were responsible for putting it into action.

New South Wales and Queensland -- eastern states with roughly half Australia's population between them -- have hamstrung the process, saying they needed more funding to put the convention into practice.

New South Wales last week blocked UN inspectors from a small courthouse jail, the UN delegation said.

Queensland refused to let inspectors visit inpatient units at mental health facilities, according to the Queensland Health department.

The UN delegation said it had "been prevented from visiting several places where people are detained... and was not given all the relevant information and documentation it had requested".&nbsp;

Australia's prisons, youth detention centres, and immigration compounds have been plagued by persistent allegations of human rights abuses, particularly against Aboriginal communities.

Criminology professor Lorana Bartels said there was a clear need for greater scrutiny.

"Clearly, there are issues with the management of correctional facilities in Australia," she told AFP.&nbsp;

"This demonstrates a real lack of understanding and respect for these processes."&nbsp;

Australia has until January 2023 to meet its obligations.&nbsp;

There are no penalties for missing the deadline, but Australia could be placed on a non-compliance list of countries with significant human rights concerns.

The United Nations has abruptly suspended its anti-torture mission to Australia after inspectors were barred from several jails, with a key oversight body condemning on Monday the "embarrassing debacle".

The United Nations has abruptly suspended its anti-torture mission to Australia after inspectors were barred from several jails, with a key oversight body condemning on Monday the "embarrassing debacle". Tasked with touring facilities under a voluntary agreement to prevent cruelty to detainees, the inspectors said they made the "drastic" decision after they were refused entry at "several" jails and detention facilities. Lead inspector Aisha Muhammad, a Supreme Court judge in the Maldives, said Australia was in "clear breach" of its international obligations. "Despite our numerous efforts to explain our preventative mandate, this was clearly not understood," she said. Only three other countries -- Rwanda, Azerbaijan and Ukraine -- have had anti-torture inspectors suspend or postpone missions. Australia ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT) in 2017, committing to reforms safeguarding detainees and making facilities subject to inspection. Former prison inspector Steven Caruana coordinated the domestic body responsible for tracking Australia's implementation of the convention. "There can really be no excuse as to why the delegation was hindered," he told AFP on Monday. "Australia has had almost five years to prepare for this visit. Australia will now have to answer for this embarrassing debacle in front of the United Nations Committee against Torture." Allegations of rights abuses Australia's refusal to welcome the inspectors boiled down to a funding dispute between the federal and state governments. The federal government ratified the convention, but individual states and territories were responsible for putting it into action. New South Wales and Queensland -- eastern states with roughly half Australia's population between them -- have hamstrung the process, saying they needed more funding to put the convention into practice. New South Wales last week blocked UN inspectors from a small courthouse jail, the UN delegation said. Queensland refused to let inspectors visit inpatient units at mental health facilities, according to the Queensland Health department. The UN delegation said it had "been prevented from visiting several places where people are detained... and was not given all the relevant information and documentation it had requested". Australia's prisons, youth detention centres, and immigration compounds have been plagued by persistent allegations of human rights abuses, particularly against Aboriginal communities. Criminology professor Lorana Bartels said there was a clear need for greater scrutiny. "Clearly, there are issues with the management of correctional facilities in Australia," she told AFP. "This demonstrates a real lack of understanding and respect for these processes." Australia has until January 2023 to meet its obligations. There are no penalties for missing the deadline, but Australia could be placed on a non-compliance list of countries with significant human rights concerns.

UN suspends Australia anti-torture mission after inspectors barred

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on Monday began court proceedings against Fitbit LLC, a Google-owned consumer electronics and fitness company for not complying with the country's consumer laws.

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on Monday began court proceedings against Fitbit LLC, a Google-owned consumer electronics and fitness company for not complying with the country's consumer laws. According to the competition regulator, Fitbit did not act in accordance with Australian Consumer Law when between May 2020 and February 2022 it said consumers were not entitled to a refund unless they returned the product within 45 days of shipment of the purchase. WATCH | WION Business News | Australian regulator takes Fitbit to court × Moreover, Fitbit informed consumers that they weren't eligible for second device if they had availed a replacement device earlier and the original two-year 'limited warranty period' of the device had expired. "All consumers have automatic consumer guarantee rights that cannot be excluded, restricted or modified. The consumer guarantee rights exist in addition to any warranties offered by manufacturers," said Gina Cass-Gottlieb, chairman of ACCC. "Products must be of acceptable quality, and retailers must provide a remedy for faulty goods which include a repair, replacement or refund, depending on the circumstances," she added. Read more: Australia to bring legislation for tougher penalties on hackers for data breaches Notably, under Australian Consumer law consumers are not bound by an arbitrary 45-days window to return the product to be liable for a refund. However, this is not the first time that Fitbit has found itself entangled in a legal controversy. In 2018, the company was given a federal court-enforceable undertaking in 2018 after breaking similar laws. Read more: Meta ordered to sell GIPHY for the second time by UK antitrust watchdog Through the federal court action ACCC is attempting to impose penalties on Fitbit for repeat offence and bring it under a compliance programme. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Google-owned Fitbit sued by Australian competition regulator for misleading consumers

Weeks after Australian telecom giant Optus reported a major data breach, the Anthony Albanese government has announced it will be introducing new legislation in parliament to penalise heavily repeat 'privacy breach' offenders.

Weeks after Australian telecom giant Optus reported a major data breach, the Anthony Albanese government has announced it will be introducing new legislation in parliament to penalise heavily repeat 'privacy breach' offenders. According to a Reuters report, the legislation lays down a plan to increase the maximum penalty for repeated offences to $32 million from the current $1.4 million or 30 per cent of the turnover in the relevant period or three times the value of any benefit obtained through misuse of information. "Significant privacy breaches in recent weeks have shown that the existing safeguards are inadequate. It's not enough for a penalty for a major data breach to be seen as the cost of doing business," said Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus. "We need better laws to regulate how companies manage the huge amount of data they collect, and bigger penalties to incentivise better behaviour," he added. Read more: Australia's second-largest telecom company reports major data breach in cyberattack Australia has been plagued by instances of data hacks in recent months. Optus, after the hack, reported that databases containing home addresses, licence numbers, and passport numbers of nearly 40 per cent of the population. The firm stated that the attacker's IP address appeared to switch between countries in Europe. While the Optus incident had barely died down, Australia's biggest health insurer Medibank Private Ltd. also suffered a similar hack. As reported by WION, Medibank, which covers one-sixth of Australians, said the medical information of its customers had been stolen as part of a massive breach of data. Read more: Australia's biggest health insurer Medibank reports huge data breach In the aftermath of the incidents, PM Albanese said he wanted to bring a policy change to protect the customers. "We want to make sure that we change some of the privacy provisions there so that if people are caught up like this, the banks can be let know so that they can protect their customers as well," (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia to bring legislation for tougher penalties on hackers for data breaches

U.S. allies Australia and Japan agreed to share more sensitive intelligence and deepen their military cooperation as they signed a security pact aimed at countering China's rising military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. 
 
Prime Ministers Fumio Kishida and Anthony Albanese inked the accord at the annual Australia-Japan Leaders' Meeting in the Western Australia capital Perth on Saturday as they updated a 2007 pact, to respond to a changed regional security environment, reported Reuters. 
 
The earlier 15-year-old agreement had been drafted when terrorism and weapons proliferation were the overriding concerns.&nbsp; 
 
“This landmark declaration sends a strong signal to the region of our strategic alignment,” said Albanese, hailing the ‘Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation’. 
Without citing China or North Korea by name, Kishida said the agreement was a response to an ‘increasingly harsh strategic environment’. &nbsp; 
 
In their fourth summit since Albanese took office in May, the two leaders said the agreement would serve “as a compass” for security cooperation for the next decade and agreed to consult and study responses to emergencies that could affect regional security, said an AFP report. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uk-australia-to-also-investigate-reports-that-china-hired-its-ex-military-pilots-526810">After UK, Australia to also investigate reports that China hired its ex-military pilots</a> 
 
Albanese and Kishida also discussed climate change, and expressed support for a regional transition to net zero carbon emissions, boosting investment in clean energy tech and both countries are committed to net zero by 2050. 
 
Under the bolstered accord, the two countries agreed that their military forces would train together in Northern Australia, and would “expand and strengthen cooperation across defence, intelligence sharing,” reported Reuters quoting Australian officials.&nbsp; 
 
International affairs expert Bryce Wakefield told AFP, Australia and Japan do not have armies of overseas intelligence operatives and foreign informants needed to play in the major leagues of global espionage, but they have remarkable signals and geospatial capabilities -- electronic eavesdropping and high-tech satellites that provide invaluable intelligence on adversaries. 
 
Japan does not have a foreign spy agency equivalent to America's CIA, Britain's MI6, Russia's FSB or Australia's much smaller agency ASIO.&nbsp; 
Wakefield, director of the Australian Institute of International Affairs, said the agreement could have larger significance for Japan by providing it a template to accelerate intelligence ties with countries like Britain. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/60-years-of-1962-indo-china-war-it-wont-be-a-cakewalk-for-the-aggressor-again-527115">60 years of India-China war: It won’t be a cakewalk for the aggressor again</a> 
 
Some even consider the pact to be a key step towards Japan joining the powerful Five Eyes intelligence sharing alliance between Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand and the United States. 
 
“It is an epoch-making event for Japan. This will also strengthen the Quad (Australia, India, Japan and the United States) and is the first step for Japan joining the Five Eyes,” Ken Kotani, an expert in the history of Japanese intelligence at Nihon University told AFP. 
Such a proposition would have been impossible a few decades ago. But events in Japan’s neighbourhood have forced a rethink of the country’s pacifist policies established after World War II, Kotani added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-yen-hits-150-mark-against-us-dollar-worst-since-august-1990-527077">Japanese yen hits 150-mark against US dollar - worst since August 1990</a> 
 
As reported extensively by WION,&nbsp;in recent years, North Korea has repeatedly launched missiles over and around Japan, while China has built the world’s largest navy, revamped the globe’s biggest standing army, and amassed a nuclear and ballistic arsenal right on Japan’s doorstep.&nbsp; 
 
Kishida told reporters that the signing of the updated joint security declaration was one of the biggest achievements of his visit. 
 
“I expressed my determination that all necessary options for the defence of our country, including the counterstrike capability, would be contemplated. Japan’s defence capability will be fundamentally reinforced in the next five years,” he said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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U.S. allies Australia and Japan agreed to share more sensitive intelligence and deepen their military cooperation as they signed a security pact aimed at countering China's rising military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. allies Australia and Japan agreed to share more sensitive intelligence and deepen their military cooperation as they signed a security pact aimed at countering China's rising military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Prime Ministers Fumio Kishida and Anthony Albanese inked the accord at the annual Australia-Japan Leaders' Meeting in the Western Australia capital Perth on Saturday as they updated a 2007 pact, to respond to a changed regional security environment, reported Reuters. The earlier 15-year-old agreement had been drafted when terrorism and weapons proliferation were the overriding concerns. “This landmark declaration sends a strong signal to the region of our strategic alignment,” said Albanese, hailing the ‘Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation’. Without citing China or North Korea by name, Kishida said the agreement was a response to an ‘increasingly harsh strategic environment’. In their fourth summit since Albanese took office in May, the two leaders said the agreement would serve “as a compass” for security cooperation for the next decade and agreed to consult and study responses to emergencies that could affect regional security, said an AFP report. ALSO READ | After UK, Australia to also investigate reports that China hired its ex-military pilots Albanese and Kishida also discussed climate change, and expressed support for a regional transition to net zero carbon emissions, boosting investment in clean energy tech and both countries are committed to net zero by 2050. Under the bolstered accord, the two countries agreed that their military forces would train together in Northern Australia, and would “expand and strengthen cooperation across defence, intelligence sharing,” reported Reuters quoting Australian officials. International affairs expert Bryce Wakefield told AFP, Australia and Japan do not have armies of overseas intelligence operatives and foreign informants needed to play in the major leagues of global espionage, but they have remarkable signals and geospatial capabilities -- electronic eavesdropping and high-tech satellites that provide invaluable intelligence on adversaries. Japan does not have a foreign spy agency equivalent to America's CIA, Britain's MI6, Russia's FSB or Australia's much smaller agency ASIO. Wakefield, director of the Australian Institute of International Affairs, said the agreement could have larger significance for Japan by providing it a template to accelerate intelligence ties with countries like Britain. ALSO READ | 60 years of India-China war: It won’t be a cakewalk for the aggressor again Some even consider the pact to be a key step towards Japan joining the powerful Five Eyes intelligence sharing alliance between Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand and the United States. “It is an epoch-making event for Japan. This will also strengthen the Quad (Australia, India, Japan and the United States) and is the first step for Japan joining the Five Eyes,” Ken Kotani, an expert in the history of Japanese intelligence at Nihon University told AFP. Such a proposition would have been impossible a few decades ago. But events in Japan’s neighbourhood have forced a rethink of the country’s pacifist policies established after World War II, Kotani added. ALSO READ | Japanese yen hits 150-mark against US dollar - worst since August 1990 As reported extensively by WION, in recent years, North Korea has repeatedly launched missiles over and around Japan, while China has built the world’s largest navy, revamped the globe’s biggest standing army, and amassed a nuclear and ballistic arsenal right on Japan’s doorstep. Kishida told reporters that the signing of the updated joint security declaration was one of the biggest achievements of his visit. “I expressed my determination that all necessary options for the defence of our country, including the counterstrike capability, would be contemplated. Japan’s defence capability will be fundamentally reinforced in the next five years,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan, Australia ink ‘landmark’ security pact to counter China’s military build-up in Indo-Pacific

Warm temperatures combined with flood waters could leave upto 750,000 Australians vulnerable to the Japanese Encephalitis, a disease confined to Asia, northern Australia. Six out of 31infected people have died after the disease was detected in several hickories in southern Australia.

WION Climate Tracker: Australia at risk of Japanese Encephalitis outbreak?

Australia and Singapore agreed on Tuesday (October 18) on a "green economy" deal to boost cooperation on climate investment, financing and technology.

Australia, Singapore sign 'green economy' pact to boost cooperation on climate investment

The Australian and Singapore leaders have announced what they describe as the world's first agreement to to cooperate in transitioning their economies to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Singapore's Prime Minister and Australia's Prime Minister both outlined their green economy agreement.

World Business Watch: Australia, Singapore sign 'Green Economy' pact; aims net-zero emissions

A day after it was revealed that former British pilots were being poached by the Chinese military to train its troops, Australia has said it will also investigate such reports.

A day after it was revealed that former British pilots were being poached by the Chinese military to train its troops, Australia has said it will also investigate such reports. Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles said he had ordered the department to investigate claims that ex-Australian military pilots were recruited by the flight school, based in South Africa to work in China. "I would be deeply shocked and disturbed to hear that there were personnel who were being lured by a pay check from a foreign state above serving their own country. I have asked the department to investigate these claims and come back to my office with clear advice on this matter," said Marles. WATCH | Pilots hired to help China understand how western planes operate × As reported by WION, China is attempting to learn the ways of the western militaries, in case a conflict with Taiwan or any other country comes to heed. Most of the pilots are being recruited through headhunters, with a flying academy named Test Flying Academy of South Africa (TFASA) acting as the centre of operations. Read more: China luring former British pilots with hefty paycheques to help its military: Report According to the British Ministry of Defence (MoD), the pilots lured by China appear to have flown Typhoons, Jaguars, Harriers and Tornados The sources say that the British military first became aware of the issue, back in 2019 when a small batch of former military pilots was hired. After the pandemic struck, the movement was stopped as air travel became next to possible. However, since then, China has quietly ramped up its hiring process yet again. Yesterday, the British Ministery of Defence shot a warning saying pilots who were involved with China risked facing prosecution under the Official Secrets Act, and a national security bill would provide other paths to prosecution. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After UK, Australia to also investigate reports that China hired its ex-military pilots

Australia and Singapore on Tuesday signed a “green economy” deal to deepen cooperation on climate investment, financing and technology.

WION Climate Tracker: Singapore signs 'green economy' pact with Australia

The Australian government has reversed the previous government's recognition of west Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and said the issue should be resolved as part of peace talks between Israel and Palestine.

Australia removes reference to west Jerusalem as Israel capital

Australia on Tuesday (October 18) reversed recognition of west Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The decision marks reversal of the one taken by the previous government. Australia said on Tuesday that the issue should be resolved as part of Israel-Palestine peace talks.

"Australia is committed to a two-state solution in which Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist, in peace and security, within internationally recognised borders," Foreign Minister Penny Wong said during a media briefing.

"We will not support an approach that undermines this prospect."

In 2018, Australia under conservative government led by Scott Morrison had formally recognised west Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The decision had changed decades of Middle East policy.

"I know this has caused conflict and distress in part of the Australian community, and today the government seeks to resolve that," Wong said Tuesday. 
She accused the Morrison government of being motivated by a crucial by-election in a Sydney suburb with a sizable Jewish community.

"You know what this was? This was a cynical play, unsuccessful, to win the seat of Wentworth and a by-election."

The 2018 decision had also caused strain in relations between Australia and neighbouring Indonesia. It is world's most populous Muslim-majority country. A free trade deal between the two countries was temporarily derailed.

Jerusalem is claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians.&nbsp;

Most foreign nations avoid locating embassies in the city for fear of prejudging peace talks on the city's final status.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Australia on Tuesday (October 18) reversed recognition of west Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The decision marks reversal of the one taken by the previous government.

Australia on Tuesday (October 18) reversed recognition of west Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The decision marks reversal of the one taken by the previous government. Australia said on Tuesday that the issue should be resolved as part of Israel-Palestine peace talks. "Australia is committed to a two-state solution in which Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist, in peace and security, within internationally recognised borders," Foreign Minister Penny Wong said during a media briefing. "We will not support an approach that undermines this prospect." In 2018, Australia under conservative government led by Scott Morrison had formally recognised west Jerusalem as Israel's capital. The decision had changed decades of Middle East policy. "I know this has caused conflict and distress in part of the Australian community, and today the government seeks to resolve that," Wong said Tuesday. She accused the Morrison government of being motivated by a crucial by-election in a Sydney suburb with a sizable Jewish community. "You know what this was? This was a cynical play, unsuccessful, to win the seat of Wentworth and a by-election." The 2018 decision had also caused strain in relations between Australia and neighbouring Indonesia. It is world's most populous Muslim-majority country. A free trade deal between the two countries was temporarily derailed. Jerusalem is claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians. Most foreign nations avoid locating embassies in the city for fear of prejudging peace talks on the city's final status. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australia reverses decision of recognising Jerusalem as Israel capital

A trial at the University of Western Sydney is studying the efficiency of drones in a bid to replace honey bees for pollination purposes.

Tech in Trend: Miniature drones to replace honey bees for pollination purposes in Australia

Miniature drones could potentially replace honeybees for pollination purposes in indoor crop settings. A trial at the University of Western Sydney is studying their efficiency. Watch the video to know more.

WION Fineprint: Are drone pollinators replacing bees? Drones being put to test in Australia

In the latest string of cyber attacks, Medibank says normal operations resume. There is no evidence that customer data were removed during the ransomware attack.

Medibank says normal operations resume after a ransomware attack on the Australian firm

Australia reports first fatality due to the widespread flash floods. This comes despite heavy rains easing and flood levels going down across the southeast. The 71-year-old victim was found dead in the backyard of his property in northern Melbourne.

Australia battles floods: One dead due to flash flooding

Floods have wreaked havoc in Southeastern Australia. Two days of incessant rains have triggered flash flooding. Waters have burst riverbanks, thousands of residents are now waiting to access the damage caused to their homes.

Australia floods: Southeast Australia inundated by floods, hundreds evacuated

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